Aug 2, 2011

Season Preview: Cody Rosen

Amidst all this arena talk, it is time to get back to hockey. Of course, we will continue to update the arena situation as it unfolds, but the best way to take our mind off of it is to look forward for this upcoming season. So without further adieu, here is the first of our 58 season previews - one for each member of the Islanders organization. This will range from prospects all the way to the stars, and will include our thoughts on what they need to accomplish to either make an impact or take the next step. So here we go:

Last Year: Rosen played three games for Clarkson, with only one start against Air Force in the Denver Cup. Although he made 32 saves on 34 shots, Rosen took the loss is Air Force won the game 2-1. He also played in the third period of games against Minnesota-Duluth and Union College, both NCAA Tournament attendees.

Expectations: Rosen is entering his third season for Clarkson University, but has only played four games thus far for the team. A controversial pick in the 2010 draft, Rosen is getting to the point where he will need to start to make an impact for Clarkson this year to be considered for a contract from the Islanders. This year, he will either be the backup or the third string again, so his chances will be few and far between with Paul Karpowich in net most of the games. When he gets in, however, he must play well.

Projections: 5 G, 1-2-0, 2.86 GAA, .903 SV%.

Thoughts

CH: Rosen was not on anyone's radar when he was selected by the Islanders in the 7th round in 2010. After seeing him at two prospect camps, he has been decently impressive. With some work, he has college potential, but I'm not so sure he would be able to make it past that. With the depth the Islanders have in goal with Kevin Poulin, Anders Nilsson, and Mikko Koskinen, it would be extremely tough for Rosen to break through. However, he does have two more seasons to prove that he belongs at the next level. It will certainly be interesting to see if he gets more playing time this season, as it is imperative for his development. Hopefully, Rosen ends up showing he was worthy of the pick this season.

AT: Not even an under the radar pick or a sleeper pick. This was more like a comatose pick. I have to admit I thought it was completely out of left field when he was picked, but he showed some decent stuff at the Blue and White scrimmage this year. He has a heavy depth chart to work his way through, but it's always nice having depth in goal knowing our 800 pound gorilla on the ice.